Vineyard Florals

This past trip to Italy was unique and extremely special. I loved traveling to new spots and tasting cuisines from various regions of Italy. It was only natural to wander away from the more tourist spots that can be busy in the European summer months and sample what more remote Tuscany has to offer. And boy did it not disappoint!

When I lived in Siena, Italy during college days I had a fabulous and still very much out of this world Italian teacher that took us to many places to best experience the culture, art, and history. What better way to learn right?! During this visit she traveled with our group to a special place in her heart,  Fattoria Del Colle, the 16th Century vineyard of her matrimonio. This villa was the perfect back drop for an afternoon lunch and wine tasting. Every view was breathtaking!

I wore a sundress for the hot weather, as it's impossible to stay cool under a cypress tree. I loved the detailing on the back and the loose comfortable fit.  This was a day to remember, getting to wine taste and tour the grounds. The scenic views weren't short of a fairy tale and I was so happy to have met the owner herself, Donatella. This fabulous female makes it a point to keep the vineyards tradition of educating and employing predominantly female staff to run the business. Throughout generations this Italian family has continued with this tradition.  The winery even has a vino named Cinderella to symbolize its history. It is home to some of the best chianti and brunello of the region. 

Special grazie to Barbara and Donatella for sharing such a wonderful spot in Tuscany with our group that day!

My Look Details: Dress: Zara (sold out) similar finds here and here These are perfect to transition to fall with! //Purse: Zara loving this option and this style// Shoes: Soludos// Sunglasses: Prada similar style here and here// Watch: Michael Kors 

Lake Como, Italy

During this summer's vacation our first stop was to Lake Como, Italy. I was thrilled about this little lake region since I had never visited it before nor had Kevin. After flying to Milan we took a high speed train to this northern lake region and found ourselves on a ferry with luggage to Cadenabbia, one of many small towns on the lake.

We opted to stay in a well located Air B&B that I highly recommend that was close enough to the ferry and sites of the area. It's listed as Royal Cadenabbia-Design Apartment if you're interested, check it out!  It was perfecto for our first Air B&B experience, setting a high standard. We visited Bellagio for dinner most evenings, walked along the lake, and explored the stunning botanical  gardens of Villa Carlotta amongst other sites. This villa is absolutely breathtaking and Kevin outdid himself with the most perfect proposal from the top balcony! We enjoyed this quaint place away from heavy tourism and loved the fresh area food from the region. Besides way too many photos and wine we couldn't have indulged more. We will definitely be returning ! 

Balcony from the surprise proposal!  💍

Engagement Dinner in Bellagio  💍🍾💕

All outfit details linked in previous post!  

LB Off the Shoulder Romper

Our first stop on this summer's European vacation started off in Lago di Como, aka Lake Como, Italy. Having lived in Italy in 2009 and traveled through most major cities over the years I was  thrilled to explore the lake region, and it is absolutely breath taking from every corner! The perfect calm and tranquil retreat with lots to see, and of course eat! We stayed in the small town of Canedabbia across from Bellagio.

We loved how accessible it was to explore the lake region by the ferries. This first stop on our trip will always be a special one for me. It was beautiful shooting in this picturesque place, especially exploring around an old family villa where we toured the sprawling gardens and mansion. It was at this Villa Carlotta Kevin proposed on the highest balcony overlooking the lake. It truly felt like such a fairy tale ending to a perfect summer day and we couldn't be happier! 

More details on our engagement and staying in lake como soon to follow in travel.

Outfit Details: Romper: Loft (sold out, similar here) love this Pant version | Hat:           Nordstrom | Purse: Zara (on sale, sold out similar bag) splurge: Chloe version Sandals: Dolce Vita past season love this tassel version Bracelets: Loft (turquoise set) & Bauble Bar, past season, colorful tassels here! | Sunglasses: Loft